Approaches to Improve the Distribution Aspects of Gasoline in Mexico

Gasoline distribution depends of a complex infrastructure which consists of refineries, storage depots, gasoline stations, roads and pipelines. In Mexico, recent research has supported the need to increase storage capability to ensure high service level in the event of disruption of pipeline distribution. The present work extends on this scenario by proposing alternatives focused on: (a) determining the balanced number of stations to be served by the storage depots to reduce their overload and thus, reduce the negative impact if such depots are closed, and (b) determining the outcomes of increasing the number of storage depots to reduce shortage and service distance. For this work, data regarding locations of gasoline depots and stations were considered. Also, due to the large size of this data, the adaptation of deterministic algorithms for assignment and location of facilities were considered. As result, it was determined that limited storage depots can affect the efficiency of distribution through tanker trucks. Thus, efforts should be aimed to increase the number of these facilities.